Waikato TR 24 September 2025 – R7 – Gareth Lahoud
ID: RIB59130
Animal Name:
San Simeon
Code:
Thoroughbred
Race Date:
24/09/2025
Race Club:
Waikato Thoroughbred Racing
Race Location:
Cambridge Jockey Club - 40 Racecourse Road, Cambridge, 4210
Race Number:
R7
Hearing Date:
24/09/2025
Hearing Location:
Cambridge Synthetic Racecourse - 40 Racecourse Road Cambridge 4210
Outcome: Proved
Penalty: Apprentice Jockey Gareth Lahoud is suspended for 6 days
Background:
Following the running of Race 7, the ‘Happy Retirement “Heart of Gold” 2000’ , an Information was lodged alleging a breach of Rule 638(3)(f)(ii). Details are as follows:
‘in that he struck his mount with an action that raises his arm above shoulder height over the concluding stages when riding ‘San Simeon’.
Rule 638(3)(f)(ii) provides:
(f) A Rider must not use his or her whip:
(ii) using an action that raises the Riders arm above shoulder height.
The Respondent confirmed to the Adjudicative Committee that he understood the Rule and admitted the breach. Mr Lahoud was assisted in the hearing by Mr Noel Harris – Apprentice Jockey mentor and Mr Chris Wood – Employer.
Evidence:
Using available film, Stewards identified the incident. Between the top of the straight and just short of the finish line, Mr Lahoud is seen to strike his mount on 6 occasions where his action commenced from above shoulder height. When asked, Mr Lahoud agreed with the count and Steward contention.
Decision:
As the Respondent admitted the breach, the Adjudicative Committee found the breach proved.
Submissions for Penalty:
Stewards outlined the Respondent’s record as it relates to any breach of this particular Rule within the last six months. There was three noted namely
Waikato TR 18/6/2025 – $250 fine
R Tauranga 21/6/2025 – $450 fine
Whangarei RC 12/7/2025 – 5 day suspension
Stewards contended that given record, the Adjudicative Committee considers a 6 or 7 day suspension of Licence. Mr Lahoud has had 67 race day rides within the last twelve months. Mr Lahoud, with the assistance of Mr Wood, acknowledged that suspension was likely to follow and sought deferment of same until close of racing at Te Rapa on 27 September 2025.
Reasons for Penalty:
The breach was clearly identified by film. The NZTR Penalty Guide provides for a starting point of a $250 fine for a breach of this Rule. Given record, along with the number of strikes, an uplift over that penalty imposed on 12 July 2025 ie: 5 day suspension, is deemed necessary. On considering submissions, a 6 day suspension of Licence was deemed the appropriate penalty. Deferment of suspension was granted.
Conclusion
The Respondent’s Licence to ride in races is suspended for 6 NR Days, from close of racing on 27 September 2025, up to and including 8 October 2025.
Decision Date: 24/09/2025
Publish Date: 25/09/2025